Cluing in on illness

Our pets can’t tell us where it hurts, but important clues might be right in front of us.

Signs of illness can include unproductive retching, persistent vomiting, coughing or wheezing. Unusual bathroom habits, like straining to go or going less often, are clues. Even scratching or bad breath can signal problems.

Posture changes can also clue you in. For example, a persistently ruffled bird or a hunched rabbit might be sick. Likewise, if your dog or cat is limping, lying in an odd position or hesitant to sit, jump or climb stairs, something’s not right.

You might just see a subtle change in your pet’s personality with illness. Your normally quiet dog could become restless or your usually social cat might hide or act standoffish.

Remember, nobody knows your pet like you do, so watch for clues as if your pet’s life depended on it. It just might.